New Jersey Nets Close To Acquiring Carmelo Anthony in Blockbuster Deal

Al Iannazone of The Bergen Record is reporting that the New Jersey Nets are nearing an agreement with the Denver Nuggets and Detroit Pistons that will center around All-Star forward Carmelo Anthony being Jersey-bound for a package of players.

In his column, Iannazone explains (as was heavily rumored) that in the proposed deal, the Nets would receive Anthony alongside Denver guard Chauncey Billups and Detroit's Richard "Rip" Hamilton.

In addition, they would be likely to bring in guard Anthony Carter and big man Shelden Williams from the Nuggets, while DaJuan Summer and possibly Terrico White would come over from Detroit.

Heading to Denver would be Nets star guard Devin Harris—the third-overall pick in last year's draft—Derrick Favors, two first-round picks, Anthony Morrow, Ben Uzoh, Stephen Graham and Quinton Ross.

The inclusion of the picks is still up in the air at this point, though would be instrumental in getting the deal done.

As for Detroit, they will then receive the expiring contract of Troy Murphy from the Nets. They may also receive picks (though that is unconfirmed at this point).

Originally, Johan Petro was included in the deal as being Detroit-bound, though they have stated they do not want his $6.75 million contract. That could change, however, if the draft picks are included.

Billups, 34, has stated he has no desire to be traded, and could sit if he is not bought out. This, however, is unconfirmed.

In order for the deal to be complete, Carmelo must agree to a three-year/$65 million contract extension with New Jersey. The Nets view the trade as an opportunity to bring in a marquee name for their eventual move to Brooklyn.

Carmelo has averaged 24.4 points per game on the season, alongside 8.3 rebounds.

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